10 January 2013 - 30 March 2013

Heading the six-race card will be the Group 2 US$250,000 Al Maktoum Challenge Round 1 to be held at 1600 metres on the all-weather surface for Thoroughbreds. It will be accompanied by the Purebred Arabian version of the race, the Group 1 US$55,000 Al Maktoum Challenge Round 1 over the same distance. The night will also provide racing excitement on the turf for the first time this season, with the US$125,000 Al Rashidiya Trial that will be contested over 1800m.

“As we begin the Dubai World Cup Carnival season we are most pleased to welcome and thank Longines for their support in presenting Thursday’s racing,” said Mahlih Al Basti, Chairman of the Meydan Racing Committee. “Longines commitment to racing is international and reflects the dedication and passion that is shared by the Dubai Racing Club and Meydan. We not only thank them for their participation with the opening night of the Dubai World Cup Carnival but also recognise their valued support for events such as HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, the Dubai Show Jumping Championship, and the Dubai Sheema Classic, a prized race on the Dubai World Cup programme.”

Longines Vice President of Sales, Charles Villoz said: “We are proud to be again the official timekeeper for the Dubai World Cup Carnival, culminating in the famous day of racing, the Dubai World Cup. In the framework of our partnership with Meydan Group, we are excited to experience the thrill of the races at the amazing Meydan Racecourse.”